Brave fundraisers zip wire across the Thames

Daredevil fundraisers have taken part in the first ever zip wire across the River Thames, London.

Those that took part have also managed to raise more than £1 million for charity.

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Twenty thrillseekers hurtled at speeds of up to 40mph while suspended 52 metres above the capital in aid of the Evelina London Children's Hospital.

According to the Evelina London website, firefighters from the London Fire Brigade rigged up the death-defying zip wire which ran from the top of St. Thomas' Hospital to Victoria Tower Gardens.

Professor Gideon Lack, Head of Evelina London's Allergy Service, took part in the event.

Speaking beforehand he said: "To be entirely honest I have a fear of heights so I'm feeling a bit apprehensive, but I'm very excited about it.

"I'm just delighted to play my part in helping to raise much needed funds.

"It's only by having a state-of-the-art Clinical Research Facility with sufficient beds and in an environment that is friendly to children that we can help find better treatment and cures."

You can find out more about what Evelina London do here: evelinalondon.nhs.uk.